RSLAF To Recruit 1,000 Sierra Leoneans
The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) has announced plans to recruit 1,000 Sierra Leoneans into its ranks, opening applications from Thursday, 22 January 2026.
The recruitment drive invites interested candidates to apply at the nearest military location, with submissions accepted through Wednesday, 4 February 2026.
The recruitment categories include direct entry cadets (specialists, non-specialists, and serving soldiers) as well as recruits for non-tradesmen and tradesmen roles, each with specific age, education, and experience criteria.
Applicants must be natural-born Sierra Leonean citizens with no serious criminal convictions, and must meet both physical and medical fitness standards, along with submitting letters of recommendation and required documentation.
Regional Recruitment Centres are designated across the Eastern, Western, Northern, Southern, and North-Western regions to receive applications.
The Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces was formed following the country’s independence in 1961, evolving from elements of the British colonial Royal West African Frontier Force into a unified national military. It was officially renamed the RSLAF in 2002, after restructuring under the Ministry of Defence, which brought the land, maritime, and air components together under a joint command to defend Sierra Leone’s sovereignty and territorial integrity under constitutional mandate. Its roles include border security, support to civil authorities, national development tasks, and participation in international peacekeeping and stability operations.
Over the years, the RSLAF has played a significant part in Sierra Leone’s security and development. After the end of the civil war in 2002, the force was reorganised with international support to strengthen professionalism and accountability, emphasizing its role in maintaining peace and stability. The RSLAF has contributed to regional and international peacekeeping missions and supported national responses to emergencies, such as health crises and disaster relief efforts. It has also expanded welfare and training programmes for personnel and engaged in initiatives to enhance sustainability and capability across its branches.
The Defence Public Relations Director, Lieutenant Colonel Yayah Brima, encouraged qualified Sierra Leoneans to seize the opportunity and submit complete applications before the deadline.
